Post-Laminectomy Syndrome

Spine surgery is generally performed to correct abnormal anatomical problems that are causing neck/arm or back/leg symptoms, depending on the level of the spine that is believed to be the source of the pain. Many of these patients do well after spine surgery, but some continue to have persistent pain despite adequate healing. This condition is referred to as post-laminectomy syndrome or failed back surgery syndrome. Causes of continued pain after spine surgery are very complex. Some patients develop degeneration at the level above or below after a successful spinal fusion.

Management of post-laminectomy pain depends on the etiology of the pain. Our doctors will work with you to first diagnose the source of the pain and then form a comprehensive treatment plan addressing all aspects of your pain. Possible treatments range from non-invasive therapy such as physical therapy and medication to minimally invasive options such as epidural steroid injections and other injection therapy. These epidural steroid injections provide significant reduction in inflammation and pain. They also help localize and confirm the source of the pain, providing diagnostic information and allowing the creation of a more well-defined and accurate long-term plan of treatment. Spinal cord stimulation is also a potential treatment of post-laminectomy pain. We take great care to individualize your treatment so that you are given the tools necessary to get the relief you are looking for.

At Willis Knighton Spine & Pain Specialists, our goal is to reduce your pain caused by post-laminectomy pain syndrome and improve your function so that you experience an increase in your quality of life. Call our office to schedule an appointment in either our Bossier City or Shreveport locations.

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